Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders have defended their election manifesto’s infrastructure proposals, including plans for a Kota Kinabalu Light Rail and the construction of new dams.
Sabah DAP Chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said upgrading piping and sewerage systems is important, but public transportation development must also be prioritised.
“You look at our city, we have trains, but they are outdated and not keeping up with current trends,” he said at a media conference after unveiling the coalition’s manifesto on Sunday.
Phoong addressed concerns about the light rail proposal given Kota Kinabalu’s challenging terrain, including reclaimed land and sinkholes, which could affect rail foundations.
“I think it is high time we plan for better public transportation, including a rail system that will provide convenience to locals and tourists alike,” he added.
He also defended the proposed dams as necessary to tackle persistent water shortages, despite prior environmental concerns raised by PH-DAP candidate Datuk Jannie Lasimbang about the Penampang dam.
“It is necessary to build a dam because Kota Kinabalu has been suffering from water shortage issues for many years,” Phoong said.
Sabah PKR Chairman and PH Coordinator Datuk Mustapha Sakmud linked the infrastructure plans to Sabah’s push for its 40 per cent revenue entitlement under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“That is why when we get our 40 per cent, we want these funds to improve infrastructure. As for the sinkhole problem, this is exactly why we need the 40 per cent funds,” he said, adding his gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for agreeing to implement the MA63 provisions.
On the manifesto’s pledge for 30 per cent women’s leadership, Mustapha said upholding women’s agenda remains central to Keadilan’s foundation.
He acknowledged concerns over PKR fielding only one woman among 13 candidates in Sabah but clarified that the party remains committed to ensuring 30 per cent representation in the Sabah Cabinet, GLC leadership, and local governance.
In comparison, Sabah DAP is fielding four women among its eight candidates, while Amanah fielded one male candidate.
